Support land trust to protect open space

News-Times, The (Danbury, CT)

Published
1:00 am EDT, Sunday, September 11, 2005

Why are Danbury and the surrounding areas such desirable places to live?

Certainly, some of the appeal comes from the natural area's scenic views; beautiful places for walking, running, playing, nature education and inspiration; and habitat for songbirds and other wildlife. Sadly, many of these natural areas continue to disappear rapidly.

In Danbury, the
Swampfield Land Trust
, bearing the original name of the city, is an all-volunteer, nonprofit conservation organization with the sole mission of protecting natural areas and the quality of life.

The land trust advises individual, family and business landowners on alternative land-protection methods. Conserving land as open space is one of the finest legacies that a landowner can leave and usually results in substantial tax benefits, including significant savings in estate, income and property taxes.

We would be happy to have questions from and/or meet with landowners.

Also, new members are most welcome. Our greatest needs right now are:

d Educating the public and landowners on the extraordinary benefits of protecting natural areas and the significant tax benefits possible for owners who choose conservation.

d Building a fund to purchase important open space when it becomes available. Membership fees and additional donations are tax-deductible.

You'll have the satisfaction of knowing that you are a valuable partner in protecting Danbury's natural areas!